A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police who are handling the investigation said: "The military is assisting police to remove a number of vehicles and items from areas of Dorset, following the incident in Salisbury.

"The public should not be alarmed and the public health advice remains the same.

EPA

Military in protective clothing prepare to remove vehicles from a car park in Salisbury, earlier this week

Military vehicles spotted in Gillingham as police probe into Salisbury poisoning widens

"The military has the expertise and capability to respond to a range of contingencies. The Ministry of Defence regularly assists the emergency services and local authorities in the UK.

"Military assistance will continue as necessary during this investigation."